My name is Abby Creneti. I started understanding my feelings for girls when I was 14, but I never believed I’d be able to share that truth while still a student.
But life surprises you, and sometimes good people come into your life at the perfect time. I revealed my identity to my loved ones during the summer. Right away, they showed me love and support. I know how lucky I am, because not every LGBTQ+ kid gets that. Many don’t, and that breaks my heart. I never take their support for granted.
My junior year was the first time I felt ready to be out at school. Better than anything I could have pictured, truly. My classmates and teachers have been kind and supportive. I walk through the halls holding hands with Ry, and we get nothing but smiles. Our friends leave heart emojis on our pictures and tell us we’re “goals.” It’s everything I ever hoped I’d get to feel. Every teen should be able to love openly and not be afraid. I believe the world is slowly changing for the better, and one day, I hope everyone gets to love who they love without fear.
I met Riley through our school’s theatre department. She’s the one acting, and I stay behind the scenes managing the audio. She’s bright and full of life. One night, she asked me to dinner—and I couldn’t say yes fast enough. Since then, it’s been all about her. She’s amazing. She writes songs, sings like an angel, and is releasing her first single soon. I’m beyond proud of her. She’s my girlfriend and my best friend, and I feel so lucky every single day.
We’ve been together for nearly five months now. And if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s this, Riley loves Taco Bell more than anyone I’ve ever met. Acting might mean more to her than I do, but I can live with that. I know her order by heart. The Taco Bell employees know her by name and even call her “Red” when she pulls up. It’s honestly the cutest thing ever.
We took prom pictures at Taco Bell, and it was hilarious. Just two girls in prom dresses, posing outside while people inside stared and laughed. We were crying from laughing so hard. It felt silly but also perfect. I’m so lucky to make memories like that with her.
More than anything, I hope people see our love and feel hopeful. It’s not just about tacos or pictures, it’s about showing other LGBTQ+ teens that it’s okay to be themselves. Love is love, and everyone deserves it.
